Semiconductor: meaning, definitions and examples
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semiconductor
[ ˌsɛmɪˈkɒndʌktər ]
electronic component
A semiconductor is a material that has electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator. Semiconductors are essential in modern electronics, often used to manufacture devices such as diodes, transistors, and integrated circuits. They can be found in a wide range of applications, from smartphones to solar panels.
Synonyms
semi-conductor, solid-state device.
Examples of usage
- Silicon is the most commonly used semiconductor material.
- Transistors made from semiconductors amplify electrical signals.
- Semiconductors are crucial for the functioning of computer chips.
Translations
Translations of the word "semiconductor" in other languages:
🇵🇹 semicondutor
🇮🇳 अर्धचालक
🇩🇪 Halbleiter
🇮🇩 semikonduktor
🇺🇦 напівпровідник
🇵🇱 półprzewodnik
🇯🇵 半導体
🇫🇷 semi-conducteur
🇪🇸 semiconductor
🇹🇷 yarı iletken
🇰🇷 반도체
🇸🇦 أشباه الموصلات
🇨🇿 polovodič
🇸🇰 polovodič
🇨🇳 半导体
🇸🇮 polprevodnik
🇮🇸 hálfleiðari
🇰🇿 жартылай өткізгіш
🇬🇪 ნახშირბადი
🇦🇿 yarıkeçirici
🇲🇽 semiconductor
Etymology
The term 'semiconductor' has its roots in the Latin prefix 'semi-', meaning 'half' or 'partially', combined with 'conductor', which derives from the Latin 'conductus', meaning 'to lead or convey'. The concept of semiconductors emerged in the early 20th century when scientists began to explore materials that could conduct electricity under certain conditions. Initial advancements in the field were made through the study of substances like silicon and germanium, which were later recognized for their unique electrical properties. The development of the transistor in 1947 marked a pivotal moment in semiconductor technology, leading to the creation of integrated circuits in the 1960s. Since then, semiconductors have become the foundational building blocks of modern electronics, facilitating the miniaturization and enhanced performance of electronic devices.